With the search underway for a [striker,](https://www.claretandhugh.info/hurst-world-cup-triumph-started-in-our-academy/) I was surprised to discover that throughout the club’s history, only 41 players have managed to score 30 or more goals across all competitions.
Interestingly the list even includes defenders such as Alvin Martin in 40th place with a total of 31 goals in 431 appearances for the London club.
Just behind him in 41st place is Teddy Sheringham, who has an impressive goals per game ratio – 30 goals in just 86 appearances. The prolific striker was 38 years old when he joined West Ham, and was the clubs oldest debutant when he played against Leicester City on August 7th, 2004, he went onto become the oldest Premier league outfield player in December 2006 when he played against Manchester City at the age of 40 years and 270 days.
Tomas Soucek is 26th on the list with 41 goals underlining his value to the team – a fact not overlooked by Everton and Leeds United, with both clubs reportedly interested in signing the Czech international this summer.
Jarrod Bowen is in ninth place with 73 goals in 273 appearances, and Michail Antonio is in sixth place with 83 goals in 323 appearances.
Moving to the top of the list in third place, Johnny Byrne with an impressive 108 goals in 202 appearances. Just above him is Tony Cottee, who netted 137 times in 319 appearances.
At the very top is World Cup winner, Sir Geoff Hurst whose remarkable 236 goals in 481 appearances remains unmatched. \* _source for data Transfer Market.co.uk_
The Hammers sold Hurst to Stoke City in July 1972 for £80k – one can only imagine the transfer fee he would command in today’s market!?